Why Most Social Security Disability Claims Get Denied (And How to Avoid It)

Anthony Tanoos • July 16, 2025

The Shocking Truth About SSDI Denials in 2025

A judge 's gavel is sitting on top of a black table.

Did you know more than 65% of initial Social Security Disability claims are denied?

Even in 2025, with advanced online filing tools, thousands of deserving people in Indiana and across the U.S. still get rejected.


At Crossroads Disability, we’ve seen every mistake in the book. Here’s what you need to know to avoid a denial.


Top 5 Reasons Your SSDI Claim Might Be Denied

✅ 1. Incomplete Medical Evidence
SSA requires detailed records from all your doctors, not just a note saying “disabled.” Missing medical proof is the #1 reason for denial.

✅ 2. Continuing to Work Full-Time
If you earn over SSA’s Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, your case will likely be denied — even if you have a serious condition.

✅ 3. Failing to Follow Treatment
If you ignore your doctor’s orders or skip medication, SSA may decide you’re not trying hard enough to get better.

✅ 4. Missing Deadlines or Paperwork
Simple mistakes like missing forms or not appealing in time can cost you benefits.

✅ 5. Not Hiring a Disability Lawyer
Statistically, people represented by attorneys have much higher approval rates, especially at the hearing level.


How to Avoid SSDI Denials in Indiana

  • ✅ Gather Complete Medical Records
  • ✅ Keep a Log of Your Symptoms
  • ✅ File Appeals Immediately
  • ✅ Hire a Lawyer From Day One


At Crossroads Disability, we handle everything — from filing to federal appeals.


How We Help Indiana Disability Clients Win Faster

  • We track every deadline.
  • We communicate directly with SSA on your behalf.
  • We only get paid if you win — no upfront fees.


Cities We Serve:

We help clients across Indiana:

  • Terre Haute
  • Indianapolis
  • Bloomington
  • Evansville
  • Fort Wayne


✅ Remote consultations available statewide.


Free Case Evaluation — Start Today

Don’t risk losing benefits because of avoidable mistakes.


Hands typing on laptop next to a document with
By Anthony Tanoos October 20, 2025
Learn what SSDI means, who qualifies, how much it pays, and how to apply. Understand your disability benefits with Crossroads Disability.
Fan of $100 bills extending from a white envelope on a white surface.
By Anthony Tanoos October 17, 2025
Learn how much Social Security Disability pays in 2025, how SSDI and SSI are calculated, and what affects your monthly benefit. Free case reviews.
Woman holding neck, eyes closed, sweating, in an outdoor setting.
By Anthony Tanoos October 15, 2025
Learn what SSI means, who qualifies, how payments are calculated, and how SSI differs from SSDI. Find out how to apply with expert help.
Person counting cash with calculator and paperwork on a desk.
By Anthony Tanoos October 14, 2025
Learn how SSI benefits are calculated, what counts as income, and how living arrangements or state supplements affect your monthly payments.
Person holding US dollar bills, including $20 and $50 denominations.
By Anthony Tanoos October 10, 2025
Learn when Social Security can be garnished. Discover protections, exceptions for taxes, child support, student loans, and how to safeguard benefits.
Yellow END road sign in front of palm trees against a sunset sky.
By Anthony Tanoos October 8, 2025
Learn when Social Security Disability benefits may end, including medical reviews, work, retirement age, and non-medical reasons. Stay informed.
Person in wheelchair facing a dark wall. Black and white image.
By Anthony Tanoos October 6, 2025
Find out who qualifies for Social Security Disability, including SSDI and SSI rules, medical requirements, and work history. Learn how to apply today.
White light box displaying
By Anthony Tanoos October 3, 2025
Learn if Social Security Disability benefits are taxable, what income thresholds apply, and how SSDI differs from SSI. Clear answers from experts.
Notebook and paper with equations, pink pen, tabs, on a white, textured surface.
By Anthony Tanoos October 1, 2025
Learn how Social Security calculates disability benefits in 2025. Understand SSDI vs SSI, back pay, and estimate your payments with our free calculator.
Two lawyers in suits having a conversation at a table in an office setting.
By Anthony Tanoos September 29, 2025
Learn how disability lawyers are paid in 2025. Fees are capped by SSA, taken only from back pay, and you never pay out of pocket unless you win your case.
Show More